📍 Location & Geography
Chilmark is a town located in Dukes County, Massachusetts, on Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the southeastern coast of the state. The town is situated on the western half of the island and is characterized by rolling hills and beautiful coastline. It covers a total area of 19.0 square miles, of which 16.5 square miles is land and 2.5 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Chilmark are approximately 41.35° N latitude and 70.74° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Chilmark is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is one of the six towns on Martha’s Vineyard, which is part of Dukes County. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and Vineyard Sound to the north. It is bordered by the towns of West Tisbury to the east and Aquinnah to the west.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Chilmark had a population of 866 residents. The town has a low population density due to its rural setting. The demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Chilmark is higher than the national average, reflecting a significant number of retirees who choose to live in this peaceful coastal town.
🏛️ History
Chilmark was first settled by English colonists in 1660 and was officially incorporated as a town in 1694. The town was named after Chilmark, a village in England. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Chilmark was a thriving community of farmers and fishermen. The town’s population declined in the early 20th century but has since rebounded due to its appeal as a summer resort destination.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Chilmark is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town features a variety of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and beaches. Menemsha Pond, a large saltwater pond, is a popular spot for boating and fishing. The town is also home to several conservation areas, such as the Waskosim’s Rock Reservation, which offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
🏫 Education
Education in Chilmark is provided by the Martha’s Vineyard Regional School District. The town has one public school, the Chilmark School, which serves students in grades pre-K through 5. Students in grades 6 through 12 attend the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School located in the nearby town of Oak Bluffs.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation to and from Chilmark is primarily by ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard. The Steamship Authority provides year-round ferry service from Woods Hole on the mainland to Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs on the island. Once on the island, the Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority provides bus service to Chilmark and other towns. The town is also served by a network of scenic roads and bike paths.
📜 Trivia & Events
Chilmark is known for its annual summer events, including the Chilmark Road Race and the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Society Fair. The town is also home to the Chilmark Community Church and the Chilmark Free Public Library. One interesting fact about Chilmark is that it was the last town on Martha’s Vineyard to become “wet” (allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages), which occurred in 2010.